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Guri Bee

2 min read

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24-10-2024

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The 80/15/5 Rule: A Framework for Building Successful Teams

You've probably heard the saying "80% of your results come from 20% of your efforts." This is the essence of the Pareto Principle, and it's a powerful concept that can be applied to many areas of life, including team management.

The 80/15/5 rule is a variation of this principle, specifically tailored for team dynamics. It suggests that to maximize team effectiveness, you should allocate your resources and attention in the following way:

• 80%: Focus on the core team members who consistently deliver high-quality work and drive significant results. These are your "A-players", the individuals who contribute most to your team's success.
• 15%: Invest in developing emerging talent. This group may be less experienced, but they demonstrate potential and a willingness to learn. By providing them with opportunities for growth and mentorship, you're nurturing the next generation of leaders within your team.
• 5%: Recognize that not everyone will be a perfect fit. Some individuals may be underperforming or not aligned with the team's goals. This 5% represents those who may need additional support or potentially need to be reassigned or let go.

How does the 80/15/5 rule benefit your team?

• Improved Productivity: Focusing on the core team members ensures that the bulk of your resources are directed towards the most impactful individuals.
• Talent Development: By investing in emerging talent, you foster a culture of growth and learning, leading to a more diverse and skilled workforce.
• Reduced Burnout: By acknowledging that not everyone will be a perfect fit, you avoid overstretching your resources and create a healthier work environment.

Applying the 80/15/5 rule in practice:

1. Identify your core team members: Analyze performance data, observe contributions, and gather feedback from your team to identify those who consistently drive results.
2. Invest in emerging talent: Offer mentoring programs, provide opportunities for challenging projects, and encourage professional development.
3. Address underperformance: Have open and honest conversations with individuals who are not meeting expectations. Offer support, consider retraining or reassignment, or, in some cases, consider letting them go.

Key takeaways:

• The 80/15/5 rule is a useful framework for optimizing team performance.
• By focusing on core team members, nurturing emerging talent, and addressing underperformance, you can create a more productive, engaged, and successful team.

Note: This article uses concepts and frameworks found in discussions on Github, especially related to team management and talent development. While the specific examples may not be directly sourced from Github, the general principles are drawn from the collective wisdom and insights shared in the platform.